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Services trade surges as China embraces smart technologies, openness
The 2025 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS), featuring digital innovation and intelligent technologies, is underway in the park, gathering nearly 2,000 enterprises, including Global Fortune 500 companies and leading industrial enterprises in search of new cooperation opportunities in China.
Global exhibitors and business leaders are optimistic about the growth and future of China’s international services trade, hailing the country’s consistent policies to open up its services sector as a catalyst for global trade and shared growth.
ROBUST GROWTH
For Philips, the Dutch medical technology leader with a four-decade presence in China, the fair reflects robust momentum in the country’s healthcare sector. Returning to CIFTIS for the fifth consecutive year, Philips unveiled its latest magnetic resonance system, a breakthrough that shortens scan times and boosts efficiency.
“The growing awareness of healthcare and the leap in medical technologies have fueled the sector’s growth in China,” said Yang Donglan, vice president of Philips Greater China. “Every year at CIFTIS, we feel China’s business environment becoming more open and inclusive, giving us the confidence to deepen our roots here.”
Tourism company TUI China shares that optimism. The Germany-headquartered firm sees inbound travel gaining fresh momentum.
Technology has been a boost to tourism, said TUI China CEO Guido Brettschneider, noting that modern technologies, ranging from translation tools that enable tour guides to communicate in multiple languages to mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay for overseas visitors, have reduced barriers and enhanced traveler satisfaction.
The numbers bear this out. From January to July in 2025, China’s total services trade reached 4.58 trillion yuan (642.7 billion U.S. dollars), up 8.2 percent year on year. Tourism, a pillar of this growth, totaled 1.26 trillion yuan (177 billion dollars), surging 10.4 percent, according to a report from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce in early September.
The growth is attracting more global partners. Australia, this year’s guest country of honor at CIFTIS, sent its largest-ever delegation of nearly 60 organizations and companies.
On the opening day, it signed 15 agreements with Chinese partners in sectors including education, healthcare, finance and culture.
“China remains a market of tremendous potential in the service sector,” said Dominic Trindade, commercial minister at the Australian Embassy in Beijing. “Australia is committed to the Chinese market and our service providers are ready to develop new partnerships here.”
TECH POWER
At the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) booth, a humanoid robot greeted visitors, offering a glimpse into the future of banking.
Already deployed in several branches, the AI assistant can answer questions and explain bank services — an emblem of this year’s CIFTIS theme: “Embrace Intelligent Technologies, Empower Trade in Services.”
Digital innovation is becoming the backbone of China’s service economy. In the first seven months of 2025, knowledge-intensive services — including AI, digital finance, and professional consulting — rose 6.8 percent to 1.78 trillion yuan (250 billion dollars), said the commerce ministry report.
For Zaha Hadid Architects, a British architecture and design firm, the tech boom is transforming the construction services industry.
Digital tools are adopted throughout the construction process, from design to fabrication, enabling factories to precisely execute the design, which enhances accuracy and quality control, said Satoshi Ohashi, director of Zaha Hadid Architects.
China has built an incredible manufacturing base, and now it has grown and developed into an innovation powerhouse, said Ohashi. “And I think that’s the power and potential of the Chinese economy.”
The view is echoed by Henning Kristoffersen, commercial counselor of the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Beijing, who noted that China’s technological advancements are helping international firms raise efficiency and sharpen competitiveness.
By shifting from traditional industries to high-value-added sectors, China is enhancing its capacity to deliver high-quality and innovative services to its international partners, said Dale Pinto, president and chair of the board of CPA Australia. “This transition is opening new avenues for global cooperation of mutual benefit.”
POLICY OPENNESS
The rapid expansion of China’s services trade comes amid its consistent commitment to opening up and win-win cooperation.
Amid a notable rise in unilateralism and protectionism, China has steadily advanced institutional opening up in trade in services, which has provided strong momentum for its own development and created greater room for global economic growth, said Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang during a keynote speech at the event.
He also reiterated China’s commitment to working with all countries and parties to strengthen opening up and cooperation in services trade.
This commitment is tangible for foreign companies like Philips.
A more open and inclusive business environment in China offers more pragmatic opportunities for the company’s development, encouraging it to further strengthen its operations here, said Yang Donglan, vice president of Philips Greater China.
Global scholars have hailed China’s opening up as a strong driver for an open world economy and inclusive growth.
China’s efforts to advance high-standard opening up bring opportunities for shared development and prosperity to countries of the Global South, while improving the global governance system, said Mutinda Mutisya, a senior lecturer at the Department of Diplomacy and International Studies of the University of Nairobi.
Steps taken by Chinese policymakers have created a platform for equal participation by its partners, including emerging economies, said Tolonbek Abdyrov, a professor of economics and vice rector of the International Higher School of Medicine in Kyrgyzstan, noting that China’s advocacy for equal rights to development of all countries sends a clear and positive message.
CIFTIS and China’s commitment to openness provide a much-needed boost to global trade, strained by tariff hikes, said Herman Tiu Laurel, president of the Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute, a Manila-based think tank. “CIFTIS will help sustain and improve the momentum of global trade and growth.”
Hashtag: #CIFTIS
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The Taiwan-born pet mobility brand opens its first SoHo pop-up inside Flying Solo, bringing its Nordic-designed pet stroller collection to the heart of New York City.
NEW YORK, USA – Media OutReach Newswire – 02 April 2026 – FikaGO, the design-led pet mobility brand recognized across Asia and Europe, has opened its first New York City pop-up store inside Flying Solo in SoHo. The opening marks a deliberate move for a pet brand into one of the world’s most competitive retail districts.
Since entering the online American market in 2025, FikaGO has built a growing community of pet parents who see their animals as a central part of everyday life. Positioned as lifestyle essentials rather than conventional pet gear, FikaGO’s range of products is designed for people who want the best for their fur babies.
“We’ve always believed that pet products should not only be functional, but also beautifully integrated into everyday life.” — Eric Guu, Co-founder, FikaGO
SoHo was a considered choice: Flying Solo, with locations in New York and Paris, is known for championing independent design with a distinctly global sensibility.
The pop-up showcases FikaGO’s auto-folding Free To Go 2 in Sandy Beige, the brand’s bestselling product. All FikaGO’s products are manufactured using eco-friendly fabrics made from recycled materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. This includes their large-capacity Agile 2 pet strollers to their airline-approved Truffle carriers and the heavy-duty Kross pet wagon.
“Launching in SoHo is a meaningful milestone for us; it allows customers to truly experience the quality, design, and intention behind every FikaGO product.” — Eric Guu, Co-founder, FikaGO
As pet ownership rises globally, particularly among urban millennials and Gen Zs, demand for products that combine functionality, design, and lifestyle integration continues to grow. FikaGO was built for precisely this moment, and SoHo is precisely where that moment lives.
Visit the FikaGO pop-up at Flying Solo, 419 Broome Street, New York, or explore the full collection at https://us.fikago.com/.
Hashtag: #FikaGO #petmobilitybrand #petstroller #petcarrier #petwagon #petkennel #petbiketrailer
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About FikaGO
FikaGO is a pet mobility brand founded in Taiwan, dedicated to crafting products that blend functionality, comfort, and modern aesthetics. With a presence across Asia and growing reach in Europe and the U.S, FikaGO is redefining everyday experiences between pets and their humans.
Media OutReach
Lee Kum Kee Celebrates Culinary Excellence at the Historic Hong Kong Debut of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026
From 23-25 March, Lee Kum Kee brought together top chefs, diverse cultures and industry communities through a range of thoughtfully curated experiences, bringing authentic Asian flavours to the global stage. As well as reaffirming the brand’s Asian roots and international perspective, its involvement reflected an enduring commitment to preserving culinary heritage and driving gastronomic innovation.
“Asian Flavour Duet“: A Culinary Journey Through Heritage and Innovation
Helping to build momentums for this year’s awards, Lee Kum Kee collaborated with Vicky Cheng, the acclaimed Executive Chef and owner of WING, to co-create the “Asian Flavour Duet”, a Hong Kong-style late-night supper party on 24 March. Hosted at two Hong Kong culinary landmarks, the experience unfolded in two chapters – “Paying Tribute to Heritage” and “Innovative Fusion” – and invited guests to explore the limitless possibilities of Asian flavour.
The evening began at the century-old Lin Heung Lau teahouse, a space filled with nostalgia and memories for generations of Hong Kongers. Chef Vicky reinterpreted classic Hong Kong late-night dishes using signature Lee Kum Kee sauces, while guests were immersed in the warmth of the historic venue.
The celebration then moved to Medora, Chef Vicky’s Western dining space, where an “Innovative Fusion” was revealed. He showcased his modern culinary philosophy by incorporating Lee Kum Kee sauces with contemporary techniques to create bold, unexpected dishes. Guests also enjoyed specially crafted cocktails infused with Lee Kum Kee sauces, alongside a delightful yet refined sauce-inspired gelato, demonstrating a harmonious interweaving of savoury, umami, sweetness and spice.
The multisensory journey seamlessly blended tradition with innovation, exploring the future of cuisine while highlighting Lee Kum Kee’s role as a global gateway to Asian culinary culture.
At the event, Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs at Lee Kum Kee, commented, “Tonight, we are honoured to celebrate Hong Kong’s late‑night food culture with Chef Vicky and the global culinary community. From the legacy of Lin Heung Lau to the forward‑looking spirit of Medora, we are proud to be part of the creative journey and help showcase the depth of Asian flavours on the world stage.”
Celebrating a Gastronomic Brilliance with the Highest Climber Award Sponsored by Lee Kum Kee
During the awards ceremony on 25 March, Lee Kum Kee’s booth showcased a range of the brand’s acclaimed classic sauces and innovative products. Guests sampled specially crafted bites featuring Lee Kum Kee sauces, engaging directly with the flavours and techniques that have made the brand a trusted partner in both home and professional kitchens worldwide.
As part of the evening’s celebration of the region’s most exceptional culinary talents, the Highest Climber Award sponsored by Lee Kum Kee was presented to Lamdre in Beijing by Chef Park from Atomix (No.1 in North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025). Lambre was applauded for its pioneering plant-based dining space that promotes healthy, sustainable living while honouring Chinese biodiversity in its menus.
In addition, WING, led by Chef Vicky, achieved an impressive second place in 2026 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list. The restaurant had also previously ranked No. 11 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2025, underscoring its continued international acclaim.
Building the Future Together: Deepening Global Partnerships
With the success of this prestigious awards ceremony in Hong Kong, China, Lee Kum Kee looks forward to deepening its collaboration with leading talents in the global culinary community. By continuing to champion Asian flavours and foster meaningful dialogue and exchange, the brand will continue to bring the spirit of Asian cuisine to kitchens and dining tables around the world.
Hashtag: #LeeKumKee #LKK
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About Lee Kum Kee
Lee Kum Kee is the global gateway to Asian culinary culture, dedicated to promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide. Since 1888, it has brought people together over joyful reunions, shared traditions and memorable meals. Beloved by consumers and chefs alike, Lee Kum Kee’s range of more than 300 sauces and condiments sparks creativity in kitchens everywhere, inspiring professional and home chefs to experiment, create and delight. Headquartered in Hong Kong, China and serving over 100 countries and regions, Lee Kum Kee’s rich heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, sustainable practices and “Constant Entrepreneurship” combine to enable superior experiences through Asian cuisine for people worldwide. For more information, please visit www.LKK.com.
About Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants
Launched in 2013, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants aims to showcase the outstanding achievements and diverse culinary landscape of the region. The list is determined by the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, a panel of over 350 culinary experts from across Asia who vote independently based on their specialised knowledge of the local dining scene. The Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants series includes the awards ceremony and list announcement, creating a premier networking platform for restaurateurs, media, seasoned travelers and culinary connoisseurs to celebrate the exceptional service, passion and talent in the dining industry.
- Herbert Vongpusanachai takes on the role of Senior Vice President for Commercial for the region, effective April 1, 2026
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 April 2026 – DHL Express, the world’s leading international express service provider, has appointed Herbert Vongpusanachai as Senior Vice President, Commercial for Asia Pacific, effective April 1, 2026. Herbert, who currently serves as Managing Director for DHL Express Thailand & Indochina, will be based in Singapore for his new role.
Herbert brings more than two decades of leadership experience within DHL Express, having successfully helmed multiple key markets across the region. He first joined the company in 2003 as Managing Director for Thailand & Indochina, later taking on leadership of Singapore in 2008, followed by Hong Kong & Macau in 2016. Since returning to lead Thailand & Indochina in 2020, he has driven sustained year‑on‑year profitable growth, transforming the cluster into one of the region’s key engines of expansion.
“Herbert has an exceptional track record of delivering strong business results while nurturing highly engaged teams across diverse markets. His deep understanding of our customers, collaborative leadership style, and ability to unearth opportunities in complex environments make him the ideal leader to drive our commercial agenda for Asia Pacific. I am confident that under his guidance, we will continue to accelerate sustainable growth across the region,” said Ken Lee, CEO for Asia Pacific, DHL Express.
In his new regional role, Herbert will shape and accelerate the commercial strategy for DHL Express across Asia Pacific by working with other functions to assess new sectors, routes and trade lanes with high potential for growth. He will focus on deepening customer engagement and supporting their expansion, while driving sustainable volume growth and advancing the adoption of new technologies to enhance commercial execution across markets. With his extensive country expertise and people‑first leadership style, Herbert is well‑positioned to support both regional and country teams in raising commercial performance to new levels.
“Asia Pacific remains an important anchor in global trade as seen in the latest DHL Global Connectedness Report, and this indicates the unwavering role of logistics to facilitate the flow of goods. With the newly introduced Heavyweight Express solution, which enables customers to ship heavyweight shipments with speed, certainty and reliability, I look forward to working alongside our talented teams to contribute to shaping the next chapter of DHL Express’s commercial success,” said Herbert Vongpusanachai, Senior Vice President – Commercial for Asia Pacific, DHL Express.
The latest DHL Global Connectedness Report shows that the region remains a major anchor of global commerce, with multiple economies rising in global connectedness rankings and Southeast Asia firmly establishing itself as a fast‑growing trade corridor. This also mirrors one of DHL Group’s strategies to better support 20 markets globally to accelerate growth; eight of them rest in Asia Pacific – underscoring the region’s critical role in DHL’s global network. As trade flows diversify and intra‑Asia integration deepens, this leadership appointment further strengthens DHL Express’s position in Asia Pacific.
Hashtag: #DHL
https://group.dhl.com/en.html
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DHL – The logistics company for the world
DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With approximately 389,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.
DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of approximately 82.9 billion euros in 2025. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.
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